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Dudhwa National Park is a prominent wildlife sanctuary located in the Terai belt of Uttar Pradesh, India, close to the Nepal border. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly its successful conservation efforts for the endangered Indian rhinoceros and the swamp deer (barasingha). The park, along with the Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, forms the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve.

Geographical Location and Landscape

Dudhwa National Park spans an area of approximately 490.3 square kilometers (189.3 sq mi), with a buffer zone of 190 square kilometers (73 sq mi). The landscape is characterized by a mosaic of tall grasslands, dense sal forests, swamps, and wetlands. The park is fed by the Mohana and Suheli rivers, which are tributaries of the Sharda River, creating a unique ecosystem that supports a wide array of flora and fauna. The flat alluvial plains and the sub-Himalayan Terai region contribute to its distinctive ecological features.

History and Establishment

The area that now constitutes Dudhwa National Park was initially declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1977. Its primary purpose at that time was to protect the dwindling swamp deer population. In 1988, it was upgraded to a national park, and in the same year, it was brought under the purview of Project Tiger, becoming part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve.

A significant conservation milestone for Dudhwa was the reintroduction of the Indian rhinoceros (one-horned rhinoceros) in 1984. Rhinos had been extinct in the region for over a century, and the reintroduction program, which involved relocating rhinos from Assam and Nepal, has been largely successful, establishing a viable breeding population within the park.

Flora (Vegetation)

The vegetation in Dudhwa National Park is predominantly moist deciduous forest, with a significant presence of sal (Shorea robusta) trees. Other common tree species include:

• Asna (Terminalia tomentosa)
• Jamun (Syzygium cumini)
• Teak (Tectona grandis) (though less dominant than sal)
• Banyan (Ficus benghalensis)
• Peepal (Ficus religiosa)

The grasslands, locally known as "phanta," are extensive and play a crucial role in supporting the herbivore population, especially the swamp deer. Aquatic vegetation in the numerous swamps and lakes also contributes to the park's biodiversity.

Fauna (Wildlife)

Dudhwa National Park is a haven for a diverse range of wildlife.

Mammals

• Tigers (Panthera tigris): As part of a tiger reserve, it hosts a significant population of Bengal tigers.
• Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis): A major success story of the park's conservation efforts.
• Swamp Deer (Rucervus duvaucelii) / Barasingha: The park holds one of the largest remaining populations of this endangered deer species.
• Leopards (Panthera pardus)
• Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus): Wild elephants are also found, often migrating from Nepal.
• Sloth Bears (Melursus ursinus)
• Hog Deer (Axis porcinus)
• Spotted Deer (Axis axis) / Chital
• Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor)
• Barking Deer (Muntiacus muntjak)
• Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
• Jackals (Canis aureus)
• Fishing Cats (Prionailurus viverrinus)
• Otters (Lutra lutra)

Birds

Dudhwa is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 400 species recorded. It is particularly important for migratory birds that visit during winter.

• Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis): A critically endangered grassland bird.
• Great Slaty Woodpecker (Mulleripicus pulverulentus)
• Swamp Francolin (Francolinus gularis)
• Bar-headed Goose (Anser indicus)
• Various species of eagles, owls, storks, and kingfishers.

Reptiles and Amphibians

• Mugger Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris)
• Gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) (in nearby Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary)
• Pythons (Python molurus)
• Monitor Lizards (Varanus spp.)
• Various snake species

Conservation Efforts and Significance

Dudhwa National Park plays a critical role in the conservation of several endangered species.

• Project Tiger: Its inclusion in Project Tiger has bolstered efforts to protect the Bengal tiger.
• Rhino Reintroduction: The successful reintroduction of the Indian rhinoceros is a testament to effective wildlife management.
• Swamp Deer Conservation: The park provides a vital habitat for the largest population of swamp deer, a species highly dependent on its specific grassland and wetland ecosystem.
• Habitat Preservation: The park helps preserve the unique Terai ecosystem, which is under increasing pressure from human activities.

Tourism and Accessibility

Dudhwa National Park is open to tourists from November to June, with the best time to visit being from December to March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more common.

• Activities: Jeep safaris, elephant safaris (subject to availability), birdwatching, and nature walks are popular activities.
• Accommodation: Forest rest houses and private resorts are available near the park.
• Accessibility: The nearest railway station is Dudhwa (on a meter-gauge line) or Palia Kalan (broad-gauge). The nearest major airport is Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow, which is about 250 km away.

Dudhwa National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich natural heritage of the Terai region and witness successful conservation stories firsthand.